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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its older lions, with the fate of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The team and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later announcement, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and deliberation,” the operator remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a reprieve for the remaining lions, while former staff members expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director stated that among the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and insulting comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been advised of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be carried out humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and security requirements.”

The sanctuary achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the park to cease operations until the facilities were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.